Witney Blanket Project website logo Witney Blanket Project website logo

Making a blanket - 18th century

Before the Industrial Revolution, blankets were made in the homes and workshops of small scale weavers. This section describes the different processes required to turn raw wool into a Witney blanket.

The processes are listed in order - click on one to find out more.

Sourcing the wool Sourcing the wool
Sorting, scouring and blending Sorting, scouring and blending
Carding and spinning Carding and spinning
Quilling Quilling
Weaving Weaving
Fulling and the tuckers Fulling and the tuckers
Tentering and drying Tentering and drying
Dyeing Dyeing
Raising or 'rowing' Raising or 'rowing'
Finishing Finishing